Key Concepts
Data collection methods – general kind of techniques used to collect data, such as in-depth interview, survey, focus group, direct observation.
Data collection instruments – formats which contain the questions to be asked and the observations to be made to collect data in a specific evaluation moment. These instruments may contain multiple sections that use different kinds of methods.
Pilot test – prior to starting real data collection, you test how well one or more data collection instruments work and how well the plan works and then make adjustments.
Qualitative data – data that are based on words and observations rather than numbers and usually focus on the meanings of certain events and issues in specific settings and cultures. Qualitative data are reported most often in words. However they can be converted into numerical indicators (frequency of categories). Some methods for collecting qualitative data: interviews, observation, content analysis of records, focus groups, open-ended questions on a survey.
Quantitative data – numerical data based on pre-set categories decided upon by the evaluator that are applied in identical (or standardized) ways. These data are reported as numerical indicators. Some methods for collecting quantitative data: surveys/questionnaires, checklists.
